Miguel Garcia Castillo
Miguel Garcia Castillo
Creative Entrepreneur/Brand Strategy/Creative Director
San Francisco, CA/Chicago, IL
www.mynameismgc.co
twitter @mgarcast
instagram @mgarcast
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I help shape a brand’s long-term vision from the inside out through strategic and creative leadership.”
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
From promoting latin alternative bands and experiential marketing early in the second millennium to eventually leading a team of 25+ creatives, I learned every step of the way from my peers around me so I could evolve and pivot into new opportunities including where I am today.
FOR OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR FIELD, WHAT DO THEY USUALLY LACK?
I believe the best creative entrepreneurs can find the perfect balance between business acumen, strategic leadership and creative vision
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I’m launching a high-end skincare brand formulated for women with different levels of melanin and a confidential digital business (I wish I could tell you more but I’ve been sworn to secrecy!)
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
After years of working with clients of all shapes and sizes, I’ve learned to be flexible when it comes to my style and perspective. I tend to gravitate towards a more modern style. Whatever I do, I stand behind the idea of authenticity driving true connection.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
I consider myself equally a strategic and creative thinker. I prefer to focus on opportunities that allow me to touch both ends of that spectrum.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
Time. I wish I had more time to explore new ideas in my head. Oh, and listening to everyone go crazy about Game of Thrones (I couldn’t get into it).
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Keep me honest (especially when it comes to terrible ideas). Take notes in meetings.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Different people require different approaches. When? I had the opportunity to lead businesses and teams early in my career. Why? Because its important to be flexible in your way of working (without losing your standard).
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
Innovation leadership, Global product fulfillment .
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Early-stage organizations and brand re-imagination projects.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
Highly collaborative with decision makers.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
I prefer project-base retainers and business venture arrangements.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Email, phone, text, beers, tweet, smoke signals. I’m easy.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Read. Write. Cities. Comedy. Son.
This member profile was originally published in August 2017.